In the scientific method, which step comes immediately after forming a hypothesis?

In the scientific method, which step comes immediately after forming a hypothesis?

• A. Ask a question
• B. Communicate findings
• C. Plan/perform an experiment
• D. Analyze results

Answer: (C)

The next step is to plan and perform an experiment to test the hypothesis. After you’ve made a guess about how something works, you need to design a controlled test that can show whether your guess holds up under observation. This involves deciding what you will change (the independent variable), what you will measure (the dependent variable), and what you will keep the same to prevent other factors from influencing the results (the controls). You then carry out the procedures, collect data, and observe outcomes, possibly repeating trials to reduce random error. This tested evidence is what you use next to decide whether the hypothesis is supported or needs revision. After you have results, you analyze them to draw conclusions and then share what you found. The other steps fit earlier or later in the process (asking questions before forming a hypothesis, analyzing data after testing, communicating findings after interpretation).